Black Toe

Black toe is a relatively common condition among runners, vigorous walkers and participants in other sports where the feet are subjected to stress and strain, such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer. The condition generally is the result of impact trauma, especially in the big toe.

People who walk and run on hard surfaces such as concrete and asphalt are more likely to get black toe than those who exercise on natural surfaces or softer man-made surfaces. Hikers can experience black toe as a result of the toes banging against the front area of their shoes or boots, especially on downhill sections of trails.